In any modern economy, identity is the connection between people and the financial systems that serve them. Without a reliable way to confirm who is who, money becomes harder to trace, fraud flourishes, and trust in the system begins to erode. Nigeria’s banking sector has wrestled with this challenge for years, given its large, diverse population and the rapid growth of digital finance.

The Bank Verification Number (BVN) was introduced as a response to this problem. It is the pillar of how banks and fintechs confirm that the person moving money through the system is real. By tying all of a customer’s accounts to a single identifier, BVN brings coherence to what would otherwise be a fragmented financial identity.

Still, as essential as BVN has become, many people have questions about how it works. This article collects those questions and provides clear, grounded answers so that anyone can see how BVN affects their everyday financial experience.

## What is BVN and why was it introduced?
The Bank Verification Number (BVN) is an 11-digit identity introduced by the [Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)](https://www.cbn.gov.ng/) in 2014 to unify and secure customer identification across all Nigerian banks. It captures biometric details like fingerprints and facial recognition, ensuring that no two individuals share the same identifier. The system was designed to curb identity theft, reduce fraud, and improve customer verification in the banking sector. By tying all accounts to a single BVN, customers enjoy safer and more reliable banking transactions. 

## How do I enroll for a BVN for the first time?
To enroll, you must visit any participating bank branch in Nigeria with a valid form of identification such as a passport, driver’s license, or national ID card. At the branch, your biometric data including fingerprints and facial image will be captured for verification. After completing the process, the bank issues you an enrollment slip with a reference number. Your BVN is generated within 24 - 48 hours and sent to your registered phone number via SMS. For Nigerians abroad, enrollment can be done at select diaspora branches or approved international centers.

## Can I have more than one BVN?
No, every customer is entitled to only one BVN, and this number remains valid for life across all banks and accounts in Nigeria. Once issued, the BVN acts as a universal identifier that links all your financial relationships within the Nigerian banking system. Having more than one BVN is prohibited because it defeats the purpose of creating a single, verifiable identity. Attempts to register for multiple BVNs are flagged by the system and can lead to account restrictions. 

## Is BVN linking mandatory for all bank accounts and fintech platforms?
Yes, BVN linking is compulsory for all bank accounts in Nigeria and has also been extended to fintech services regulated by the [Central Bank of Nigeria](https://www.cbn.gov.ng/). The [Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS)](https://nibss-plc.com.ng/) enforces this mandate to support Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements. Any account not linked to a valid BVN risks restrictions such as limited transactions or outright freezing until compliance is achieved. 

## How can I check my BVN number in 2025?
You can check your BVN by dialing 5650# on your registered mobile phone number linked to your bank account, with a small service fee charged by your network provider. Many Nigerian banks also display your BVN on their mobile banking apps, internet banking platforms, or account profile sections. This gives you flexibility to retrieve it without visiting a branch. Always ensure you are using your registered phone number to avoid failed attempts. 

## How do I link my BVN to all my bank accounts and mobile wallets?
Linking your BVN is essential for compliance and financial operations. You can visit your bank branch with your BVN details or complete the process through mobile apps, internet banking, or USSD codes provided by most banks. Fintechs and mobile money operators also offer BVN linking options directly in their apps. Once linked, all accounts and wallets in your name are verified against the same BVN record. 

## What are the benefits of having a BVN for individuals and banks?
The BVN creates a unified identity that strengthens trust between customers and financial institutions. For individuals, it protects against fraud, reduces the risk of identity theft, and enables faster access to credit and banking services. For banks, it simplifies customer verification, reduces duplicate records, and improves regulatory compliance. The system also helps lenders conduct reliable credit checks, which leads to better loan decisions. 

## How secure is my BVN data and biometric information?
Your BVN and biometric data are managed by the [Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS)](https://nibss-plc.com.ng/), which applies strict security standards. All biometric records are encrypted and stored under protocols that prevent unauthorized access. Banks and fintechs are only allowed to use your BVN for verification and must comply with data protection regulations. Customers are also protected by policies that penalize misuse of personal data. This makes the BVN system one of the most secure identity frameworks in Nigeria’s financial sector.

## What should I do if my BVN details do not match my bank records?
If your BVN details don’t align with the information your bank has, contact your bank immediately. You’ll  need to provide a valid form of identification such as your national ID, international passport, or driver’s license. In some cases, the bank may also require you to re-verify your biometrics to ensure the correction is accurate.

## How can I retrieve a lost or forgotten BVN?
Retrieving your BVN is simple. You can dial 5650# on the phone number linked to your bank account, and your BVN will be displayed. If you prefer an in-person approach, visit your bank branch with a valid ID to request it. Many banks also have digital support channels where you can verify your identity and recover your BVN. 

## Are there any fees for BVN enrollment or linking?
BVN enrollment itself is completely free, as mandated by the [Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)](https://www.cbn.gov.ng/). However, while the process of linking your BVN to multiple accounts is free, some banks may charge small service fees for related actions such as retrieving a forgotten BVN, printing confirmation slips, or issuing updated BVN-related documents. It’s best to check with your bank for specific charges, but generally, enrollment and linking come at no cost.

## How can I update my BVN data if my personal details change?
If your personal details change, for example, through marriage, a legal name change, or new identification documents, you must update your BVN records. To do this, visit your bank branch with valid proof of the change, such as a marriage certificate, sworn affidavit, or government-issued ID. In some cases, your biometrics may need to be re-captured. Because BVN operates on a centralized database, updates made at one bank reflect across all linked accounts. This is to ensure that your records are consistent.

## Does BVN affect my loan application or credit checks?
Yes, BVN plays a significant role in credit access and loan processing. Lenders use BVN to verify your identity and pull accurate credit histories across financial institutions. This  improves the accuracy of credit scoring and reduces fraud risks. Essentially, your BVN acts as a single, trustworthy identity reference that strengthens your credibility with lenders and helps you build a reliable credit profile.

## How do I use the NIBSS BVN validation portal to verify BVNs online?
The [Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS)](https://nibss-plc.com.ng/) operates a BVN validation service for banks, licensed institutions, and authorized third parties. Through their secure portal or via API integration, institutions can confirm whether a BVN is authentic and verify the customer details linked to it. This verification process is essential for preventing fraud, ensuring consistency of customer data, and maintaining trust across Nigeria’s banking ecosystem. Access is restricted to authorized users, meaning it’s not a public tool but a compliance and security resource for financial entities.

## Do you need a new BVN if you change banks?
No, you do not need a new BVN when changing banks. The Bank Verification Number is a permanent and unique identifier issued once in a lifetime. It links all your financial accounts across different banks in Nigeria, regardless of how many you open or close over time. When you open a new account at another bank, you simply provide your existing BVN, and the new account will be connected. 

## Can BVN data be shared with third parties?
BVN data is highly confidential and cannot be shared freely with third parties. Access is strictly limited to authorized banks, financial institutions, and regulators such as the [Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)](https://www.cbn.gov.ng/) and the [Nigerian Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS)](https://nibss-plc.com.ng/) for compliance and security purposes. Nigerian data protection laws and strict encryption protocols safeguard the biometric and personal details tied to BVN records. Unauthorized individuals or organizations cannot access your BVN information.

## Leveraging BVN in modern lending
BVN is a cornerstone of secure banking in Nigeria, but its impact multiplies when integrated into modern lending systems. Adjutor provides enterprise-grade APIs that embed BVN verification directly into loan origination workflows. This allows lenders to access identity details, linked accounts, and automate verification, analytics, and operational processes. Adjutor turns BVN from a static requirement into a dynamic tool for lending.

By pairing BVN APIs with open banking permissions, lenders can retrieve income and transaction data from all linked accounts, enhancing credit assessments and risk management. For lenders looking to scale efficiently while ensuring compliance and security, integrating BVN through Adjutor is a strategic step. Explore how Adjutor can transform your lending operations by visiting [Adjutor](https://adjutor.io) or reaching out to support@adjutor.io today.


Frequently asked questions about BVN

Direct Debit is one of the most widely used payment methods worldwide. It powers everything from household bills to digital subscriptions and loan repayments. Once authorized, payments are handled automatically. This ensures consistency for businesses and reduces missed deadlines for customers.

Many people are unsure how it differs from standing orders or card payments, what safeguards exist if something goes wrong, and what role banks or payment processors play in the background. Misconceptions can make users either overly cautious or too trusting without knowing their rights.

This article brings clarity by answering the most common questions about Direct Debit. The goal is to give readers a clear, practical understanding of how it works and why it matters in today’s digital payment system.

## What is direct debit and how does it work?
Direct debit is a payment instruction that allows a business or organization to collect money directly from a customer’s bank account. The process starts when the customer authorizes a mandate, usually signed digitally or on paper. Once approved, the business can request payments through its bank, and the customer’s bank verifies and transfers the funds, typically within one working day.

## What is a direct debit mandate, and why is it important?
A direct debit mandate is the formal authorization that gives a company permission to collect money directly from your bank account. It is the legal and operational pillar of every direct debit transaction. The mandate ensures that collections are properly authorized, traceable, and compliant with banking rules. Without a valid mandate in place, no business can pull money from your account. This safeguard protects customers from unauthorized deductions and gives businesses the confidence that payments they request are legitimate and enforceable.

## How does direct debit differ from standing orders and card payments?
While they all move money, the mechanics are different. Standing orders are fixed instructions you give to your bank, say, ₦10,000 every first of the month. The amount and date stay the same unless you change it yourself. Direct debits, on the other hand, are initiated by the company receiving the funds. The amount and timing can change (with notice). Card payments are processed through card networks like Visa or Mastercard, which often come with higher fees for merchants. 

## Who can use direct debit?
Both individuals and businesses benefit from direct debit, though in different ways. Individuals often use it for recurring household expenses like electricity, internet, gym memberships, insurance premiums, or loan repayments. For businesses, direct debit  helps them collect subscription fees, tuition payments, loan installments, or supplier invoices with minimal effort. Because payments are automated and predictable, businesses save time on manual follow-ups and reduce the risk of cash flow disruptions.

## What are the main benefits of using direct debit for payments?
The biggest advantage of direct debit is automation. Customers no longer need to remember due dates or manually approve every payment. This reduces the risk of late fees and service disruptions. For businesses, the predictability of recurring income makes financial planning smoother. There are also cost benefits. Direct debit transactions are cheaper than card processing fees or cheque clearing. 

## Can direct debit handle both fixed and variable payment amounts?
Yes. Direct debit works for both fixed and variable payments. For example, fixed payments such as rent, gym memberships, or insurance premiums are deducted at the same amount each cycle. On the other hand, bills like utilities, internet usage, or loan repayments can fluctuate, and direct debit still processes them. To ensure transparency, payees are required to inform customers in advance if the amount will change. This gives you time to review the adjustment and make sure your account can cover the new total. 

## How do I set up a direct debit mandate?
Setting up a direct debit mandate involves filling out a simple authorization form. You’ll provide your bank details, confirm your identity, and give the payee permission to debit your account. This can be done physically (through paper forms) or online, depending on the service provider. Banks and utility companies often simplify the process to make it as quick as possible.

## Can I set up, change, or cancel a direct debit online?
Yes. Most banks and service providers now allow customers to manage their direct debit mandates online. This includes creating new mandates, updating payment details, changing account numbers, or even canceling the arrangement entirely. Online banking apps and customer portals give you direct access to these options, offering more control over your recurring payments. However, there are a few conditions to keep in mind. Any changes such as canceling or modifying a mandate require advance notice to the payee to take effect before the next scheduled payment. For example, if a debit is scheduled for the 1st of the month, submitting changes on the 30th might not prevent that cycle from going through.

## How long does a direct debit mandate remain valid?
Direct debit mandates  remain valid indefinitely, as long as you don’t cancel them and your bank account remains active. This means you don’t have to reauthorize payments every month or year unless your circumstances change. For example, if you have a standing subscription for a streaming service or a long-term loan repayment, the mandate will continue to run without interruption. That said, some payees may introduce their own policies for added security. For instance, they might require you to renew your mandate after a certain period or if there has been a long gap in payments. This ensures that the authorization is still valid and helps reduce the risk of fraudulent debits. 

## What happens if my bank account has insufficient funds on the payment date?
If your account doesn’t have enough funds on the scheduled debit date, the transaction will fail. In most cases, your bank may charge a penalty fee, and the payee might also apply a failed payment fee. This can make the missed debit more expensive than the original payment itself. Usually, the payee will attempt to process the debit again after a set period, such as 24 or 48 hours. However, repeated failures may lead to service disruptions, penalties, or even cancellation of your subscription or agreement. 

## How am I notified of direct debit payments and changes?
Direct debit schemes require that payers are informed in advance about both the date and the amount to be deducted. This notification period is essential because it ensures transparency and gives you time to make sure your account has sufficient funds. Banks or service providers send these notices through email, SMS, or push notifications within online banking apps.Some providers also allow you to view upcoming debits in your online banking dashboard, making it easier to track obligations.

## Can direct debit payments be processed internationally or in different currencies?
International direct debits are less common compared to domestic arrangements. Most direct debit systems are designed to function within a country’s banking network and usually operate in local currency. For instance, a direct debit mandate set up in Malawi or Nigeria will debit the account in the local currency only. That said, global frameworks are being developed  to support cross-border collections, especially for multinational businesses or organizations with international customers. These systems involve additional checks, currency conversion, and higher transaction fees. While not yet widespread, the evolution of fintech and open banking is making cross-border direct debit solutions more accessible over time.

## What should I do if an unauthorized direct debit is taken from my account?
If you notice a debit you did not authorize, the first step is to contact your bank immediately. Most banks operate under a consumer protection rule known as the [Direct Debit Guarantee](https://gocardless.com/direct-debit/guarantee/) (or its local equivalent), which obligates them to refund unauthorized transactions without delay. This ensures that you are not held liable for payments you never approved. After notifying the bank, it’s also important to follow up with the company that initiated the debit. Keeping an eye on your statements and activating transaction alerts can further reduce the chances of overlooking suspicious debits.

## Are there fees associated with direct debit for payers or businesses?
Banks and service providers rarely charge customers for setting up or using direct debit mandates, since the costs are absorbed by the business receiving the payments. For businesses, however, there may be associated costs. Banks or payment processors may charge transaction fees, mandate setup costs, or fees tied to failed payments. These costs vary depending on the provider, the transaction volume, and the level of integration required.

## Can direct debit integrate with mobile money platforms or digital wallets?
Yes. In many regions, direct debit is being linked with mobile money platforms and digital wallets. This integration allows businesses to collect payments from customers who may not use traditional bank accounts but rely on mobile payment systems like [M-Pesa](https://lendsqr.com/providers) or [Airtel Money](https://lendsqr.com/providers). For businesses, it also means reaching a broader customer base and reducing reliance on cash collections. As digital financial services evolve, the ability to merge direct debit with mobile wallets will become standard practice in markets with high mobile money adoption.

## How do businesses benefit from using direct debit over other payment methods?
Direct debit helps businesses secure more predictable cash flows by automating collections. Instead of waiting for customers to initiate transfers or remembering due dates, payments are automatically pulled on agreed dates. This reduces the risk of late or missed payments, which in turn cuts down on collection costs and improves financial planning accuracy.

## How do I choose a reliable direct debit provider?
When selecting a provider, the first priority should be security. Look for providers that use encryption, secure mandate storage, and strong authentication processes. Regulatory compliance is also essential, since a non-compliant provider can expose you to fines or legal risks.Beyond security, evaluate the provider’s fees, uptime, and ease of integration with your existing systems. Transparent pricing, responsive customer support, and a good industry reputation are all important signals of reliability. Reading user reviews or checking case studies can give further insight into how dependable a provider is.

## Can I manage multiple direct debits from one bank account?
Yes. Most bank accounts can accommodate multiple active direct debits at the same time. For example, you might have one debit for your electricity bill, another for your loan repayment, and yet another for a subscription service. Each debit is tied to its own mandate, so payments are tracked individually. Many banks provide dashboards where you can view upcoming payments, modify mandates, or cancel them. 

## What happens if the internet or system is down during direct debit processing?
Most modern direct debit systems are designed with resilience in mind. If there’s a network or system outage, transactions are not lost; they are queued and processed once the connection is restored. For the customer, this means no disruption; you may not even notice that a system delay occurred. For businesses, however, it’s important to choose a provider with strong redundancy and disaster recovery mechanisms, so that service interruptions don’t affect collections or reporting.

## How are disputes or failed payments handled?
Disputes are resolved by the customer’s bank. Under most consumer protection frameworks, banks must refund disputed transactions while the issue is investigated. Businesses are then informed of the dispute and can provide supporting records to resolve it. Failed payments, on the other hand, often occur because of insufficient funds in the payer’s account. In such cases, the bank or provider will notify both the business and the customer, and the system may attempt the debit again after a set period. 

## What is NIBSS Direct Debit and how does it work in Nigeria?
NIBSS Direct Debit (NDD) is Nigeria’s centralized direct debit system, managed by the [Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System](https://nibss-plc.com.ng/). It standardizes how businesses collect recurring payments from customers’ bank accounts. Once a mandate is set up and approved, NIBSS facilitates the secure transfer of funds across banks and financial institutions. Instead of each bank operating its own independent system, NIBSS provides a shared infrastructure that increases trust in direct debit as a payment method in Nigeria.

## How do I activate a direct debit mandate with the NIBSS eMandate solution?
Activation involves completing an electronic mandate (eMandate) through your bank or a fintech platform integrated with NIBSS. Instead of filling paper forms, customers authorize debit instructions digitally by submitting account details and confirming via secure channels, such as OTPs or biometric verification. Once verified, the eMandate is stored within the NIBSS system. This replaces the traditional paperwork process.

## What benefits does NIBSS Direct Debit offer businesses and consumers?
For businesses, NIBSS Direct Debit improves reliability and reduces fraud risks, since all mandates are validated and managed through a centralized system. It also enables reconciliation, making it easier to track payments and maintain accurate financial records. For consumers, the system offers convenience. Payments are automated, notifications are sent in advance, and transactions are protected under regulatory frameworks. Customers don’t need to worry about missing due dates or manually authorizing every single transaction.

## How does the NIBSS eMandate process improve the traditional direct debit mandate setup?
The NIBSS eMandate replaces physical forms with digital submissions, making mandate creation faster and more secure. Customers can authorize mandates electronically. In addition to speed, eMandates also improve transparency. Customers can track mandate statuses in real time and businesses can manage mandates electronically, reducing errors and lost documentation. This makes the entire process more user-friendly for both sides.

## What are common issues when using NIBSS Direct Debit and how can they be resolved?
Some businesses experience technical integration challenges when first adopting NIBSS Direct Debit, particularly if their internal systems are not aligned with NIBSS standards. Customers may also be unfamiliar with how eMandates work, leading to confusion during setup. Addressing this requires strong technical support and customer education. Payment failures are another common issue, often due to insufficient funds in the customer’s account. This is resolved through retry mechanisms or direct communication with the customer.

## How does NIBSS ensure security and compliance for direct debit transactions?
NIBSS uses multiple layers of security, including advanced encryption, two-factor authentication, and secure APIs, to protect payment instructions and mandate data. All transactions are logged with audit trails to ensure accountability and traceability. Compliance is maintained by aligning with both Nigerian regulations and global data protection standards. This includes strict privacy policies, anti-fraud controls, and a framework for dispute resolution. 

## Powering direct debit with APIs
Direct debit is only as effective as the systems behind it. For lenders and businesses, the challenge is doing so at scale and in line with regulatory requirements. Adjutor turns direct debit into a plug-and-play service because it integrates directly with Nigeria’s NIBSS eMandate infrastructure. Lenders don’t have to worry about compliance gaps or fragmented processes. Everything from customer authorization to settlement and reconciliation is handled in one flow.

This is infrastructure for scale. By removing the friction of manual collections, Adjutor helps lenders improve repayment discipline, and grow with confidence. If you’re serious about lending in Nigeria, Adjutor is a need-to-integrate. Visit [Adjutor](https://adjutor.io/) or reach out at [support@adjutor.io](support@adjutor.io) to get started.


Frequently asked questions about direct debit

Let’s be honest, Nigerians can be crafty with money, especially when it comes to owing. One day they’re applying for a loan on your app with a Zenith account showing N3,000. Two days later, they’re posting vacation photos on Instagram, sipping cocktails in Lekki, all while another bank account you don’t know about is quietly holding N750,000.

As a lender, that’s the game you’re playing. And if you’re not seeing the full financial picture, you’re basically lending blind.
But here’s the good news: Nigeria’s Bank Verification Number (BVN) system was designed for moments like this. With the right tools and proper consent, you can see not just the one account your borrower showed you, but all of them. Every. Single. One.

This article breaks down exactly how to do that legally, efficiently, and with the customer’s consent. If you’re serious about reducing fraud, understanding your borrower, and getting repaid on time, you’ll want to read to the very end.

### What is a BVN and why it matters so much to lenders
A Bank Verification Number (BVN) is a biometric identification system designed to improve the security of banking transactions and reduce fraudulent activities. When you enroll for a BVN, your unique biometric data, including ten fingerprints and a facial image, are captured and stored in a central database managed by the [Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS)](https://nibss-plc.com.ng/).

The BVN helps protect customers' accounts from unauthorized access and fraud. It is used across all Nigerian banks and ensures that customers are uniquely identified during transactions, including loan applications and other banking services. It also helps in identifying blacklisted customers, reducing queue times in banking halls, and enhancing operational efficiency.

The BVN isn’t just a regulatory requirement. It’s a strategic tool that connects the dots across Nigeria’s financial system. Since every Nigerian bank account is tied to a unique BVN, you can use it to trace a customer’s entire financial presence. For example, a borrower who claims to be broke on a GTBank account could be hiding N500,000 in a Zenith savings account, something you wouldn’t know unless you looked beyond the surface.

More than that, BVN data can reveal risky financial behaviors. You can spot patterns like multiple active loans, account dormancy, or frequent account openings and closures that a single bank statement or even a credit report might overlook. And perhaps most importantly, by verifying all BVN-linked accounts, you’re reducing your exposure to fraud. Ghost borrowers or chronic defaulters hopping between loan apps under slightly different names will find it much harder to deceive a lender who does their due diligence with BVN validation.

### What BVN-based checks can actually reveal
When you verify a BVN through the right channels, you get access to core identity data such as the customer’s full name, date of birth, phone number, email address, and even their biometric photo.

More critically for lenders, you can also retrieve the complete list of bank accounts tied to that BVN, regardless of whether the customer uses a commercial bank, microfinance institution, or fintech app. The data includes each bank's name and the corresponding account number.

However, it’s worth noting that BVN checks won’t show you account balances or transaction histories directly. To get those, you’ll need additional permissions, usually through open banking APIs or direct account linking setups that the customer must approve.

### How to retrieve all bank accounts linked to a BVN
There are three legitimate and reliable methods to retrieve BVN-linked bank accounts as a lender in Nigeria.
The first method is through the [NIBSS BVN Validation Portal](https://bvnvalidationportal.nibss-plc.com.ng/bvnnbo/login). Operated by the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System, this web-based platform allows lenders and other regulated entities to verify a customer’s BVN and pull up all associated accounts. 

The process is straightforward: you enter the BVN and the customer’s date of birth, pay a small fee (currently N25), and instantly receive a report listing all accounts connected to that BVN, including account numbers and bank names. This method is fast, reliable, and doesn’t require the customer to self-declare any of their accounts.

For smaller, mobile-first lenders or one-off verifications, NIBSS also provides a USSD alternative. By dialing *565*0# on a Nigerian mobile line, entering the BVN, and paying a nominal fee, you can receive a summary of all bank accounts linked to that BVN. This method works well for quick verifications but isn’t scalable if you’re handling hundreds of borrowers daily.

Lastly, and perhaps most efficiently for modern lenders, you can integrate with licensed BVN verification APIs. Providers like [Adjutor](https://adjutor.io/) which offer enterprise APIs that let you embed BVN verification into your loan origination systems. These APIs return all the data you’d get from the portal, identity details and linked accounts, but with added flexibility for automation, analytics, and workflows. If you pair these with open banking permissions, you can go even further to retrieve real-time income data and account transaction histories from all those linked accounts.

### All you need to know about Adjutor
Now, knowing BVN is powerful, but accessing it as a lender requires the right tools. That’s where Adjutor comes in.

Adjutor is an API-based verification engine that gives lenders instant access to a customer’s BVN-linked information, including all associated bank accounts. The process is straightforward, secure, and fully compliant. Here’s how Adjutor helps:

#### Access full BVN details
With just a BVN and the phone number tied to it, Adjutor initiates a consent flow. The customer receives an OTP, confirms it, and you get access to a full profile: name, phone number, date of birth, and other identity markers directly linked to their BVN. This ensures the person you’re onboarding is who they say they are. Each verification costs ₦50.

#### See every bank account linked to the BVN
Here’s the part you’ll really care about. Adjutor doesn’t just stop at identity, it also returns all the bank accounts connected to a customer’s BVN across Nigerian banks. Same consent process. Same speed. Same ₦50 per check. Now you can spot borrowers trying to hide income or dodge repayments by using alternate accounts.

#### Match customer selfies with their BVN record
To tighten fraud checks, Adjutor also lets you confirm if a selfie matches the official BVN image. It’s simple, send the image, and Adjutor returns a match result. For ₦30, you can be more confident that the person applying isn’t impersonating someone else.

### Lend safely with Adjutor
Lending in Nigeria is not for the faint-hearted. Borrowers hide accounts. Defaulters ghost you. And repeat offenders learn how to game weak systems. But it doesn’t have to be a gamble.
From pulling all BVN-linked bank accounts to blocking chronic defaulters with blacklists, lenders today have more tools than ever to protect their money. 

Platforms like Adjutor now make it possible to verify identities, uncover hidden accounts, and shut the door on fraudsters, all before a single naira leaves your wallet.
If you're building a lending business in Nigeria, the real edge isn't just fast disbursement. It's knowing who you're lending to, what they're hiding, and how to hold them accountable. That’s how sustainable lending wins.

If you’re serious about lending in Nigeria, Adjutor isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s a need-to-integrate. Reach out to us today at support@adjutor.io, and let’s get you started. 


How to get all the bank accounts linked to a customer’s BVN in Nigeria

In recent years, [the lending industry has seen a lot of changes](http://blog.lendsqr.com/a-guide-to-nigerias-financial-ecosystem-players-services-and-regulators/), and one of the leading technologies behind this shift is application programming interface (API). APIs are the glue of the modern world, enabling software to communicate and function smoothly. 

For example, when you use your phone to book an Uber ride, multiple APIs work together behind the scenes. [The Uber app interacts with your phone’s location API and then uses that information to connect with Google Maps API to find the nearest available driver](https://mlsdev.com/blog/uber-api). All these interactions happen in just minutes to ensure you get your ride effortlessly.

Lending APIs are specialised APIs within the financial system designed specifically for lenders, who use them in part or in whole to decide loan approvals, onboard new borrowers, disburse loans, and collect repayments.

Lending APIs help manage the entire loan process. For instance, there are APIs for checking credit bureau info, blacklists, analyzing statement data, and credit scoring.

### How do you get lending APIs?
Whether you're looking to approve loans, onboard new borrowers, disburse funds, or collect repayments, lending APIs provide the necessary tools to make these processes more efficient. But how do you access these APIs that can power your lending?

Service providers or lending-as-a-service companies are the main providers of lending APIs. [Adjutor](http://adjutor.io) is one such service offering world-class lending API infrastructure for lenders who already have their own technology stack but want to plug into reliable, scalable loan infrastructure.

### Adjutor: APIs built for your lending business
Adjutor is a lending API service provided via RESTful APIs. These API services include:

#### Authorizing direct debit, with consent, for repayments
Direct debit (DD) is a payment method that allows an account holder to grant authorization for a biller or lender to take money from their bank account for services as of when due. DD is similar to debit cards' ability to debit a customer’s account with prior authorization. 

Direct debit helps businesses that require recurring payments on specific dates with fixed amounts, such as insurance premiums, loan repayments, service subscriptions, or variable recurring payments on different dates (e.g., postpaid lines and electricity usage).
The direct debit API facilitates the process for service providers (called Billers) to generate debit mandate instructions on their clients’ or customers’ bank accounts for services rendered or products sold.

These debit mandate instructions are created as digital versions of physical instructions duly signed by the account owners. Once generated, the mandate instructions are automatically sent to the bank, where the account is held for review and approval. 
The approval process requires the bank to contact the account owner to authorize the mandate, which typically takes 24 to 48 hours.

#### Getting the bank accounts, with consent, tied to a customer's BVN
One of the well-known national identity systems, the Bank Verification Number (BVN), identifies bank customers within the Nigerian banking ecosystem.

The BVN API allows you to get the details of a BVN for a customer only after the customer has granted explicit consent.

This process works in two stages: The initial API call initiates the process and sends a One-Time Password (OTP) to the customer's registered phone or email address. When the customer provides this OTP, the second stage verifies the OTP and provides the BVN information.

#### Matching a customer image against what's on their BVN
This allows for real-time verification of an individual's Bank Verification Number (BVN). It is done by comparing their photograph and facial features with their BVN record. This provides your loan business with additional security and accuracy in customer information validation.

#### Getting credit information about a borrower from the Adjutor ecosystem
The goal is to verify if a borrower exists within the Adjutor-integrated ecosystem.

This ecosystem provides an aggregated view of borrowers which lenders can access to make informed decisions. To access this service, a lender must provide evidence of the customer's explicit consent.

Furthermore, if it is proven that consent was never provided, the lender would be liable for all legal costs required to amend issues that may arise. Offending lenders may also be removed from the platform.

#### Getting "probable" fraud information from our Karma blacklist
This is used to check if a customer is on the blacklist of bad actors.

Karma is a database of blacklisted individuals within the Adjutor ecosystem. A bad actor engages in fraud or attempts to request loans using a fake identity. They may also be chronic defaulters whose lenders have written off their loans.

### Get started with Adjutor – Lending API
Accessing Adjutor’s APIs is easy and one of the fastest in the market. You can make your first API call in less than 15 minutes. Here's how:
1. Sign up for an Adjutor account: Get started by creating an account on the Adjutor platform.
2. Select required services: On Adjutor, you can select the API services you need for your loan app from the available options.
3. Obtain API keys: Follow the instructions on how to get your API keys from Adjutor. Now, you'll be ready to integrate the APIs into your system.

### APIs to power your lending
APIs are now the mainstay in the lending industry. They unify lenders, borrowers, and other financial institutions in the ecosystem.

The good thing is that Adjutor allows you to access its API service independently. With these APIs, you maintain complete control over your technology while also maximizing the benefits of Adjutor’s infrastructure.

At Adjutor, the focus isn't just on who uses the platform. It's about expanding access to credit across Africa and beyond by enabling modern lenders to build, grow, and scale efficiently with the right tools. If you’re serious about lending in Nigeria, Adjutor isn’t a nice-to-have, it’s a need-to-integrate. Visit [Adjutor](http://adjutor.io) or Reach out to us today at support@adjutor.io, and let’s get you started.

What are lending APIs and how do you get them?

Our building blocks eliminate the need to build core lending and underwriting logic from scratch, enabling you to focus on your customers and drive growth. Check our API guides to learn more.

Explore how our innovative API solutions streamline loan underwriting, enhance identity verification, and automate repayments to boost your business efficiency.

Our blog

Frequently asked questions about BVN

Frequently asked questions about direct debit

How to get all the bank accounts linked to a customer’s BVN in Nigeria

What are lending APIs and how do you get them?

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